The Beatles' love affair with Bristol's Colston Hall
As one of the world's most iconic bands you probably won't be surprised to discover The Beatles made quite an impression on Bristol during their visits.
As part of our series celebrating the up-coming 150 anniversary of the Colston Hall we've been granted rare access to their archives and we've taken a look at when the iconic Liverpool four-piece regularly stole headlines performing in the city.
There were threats of bans, day-long queues for tickets and John, Paul, George and Ringo were even 'attacked' on stage – there was never a dull moment.
During the 1960s, The Beatles were just one of an abundance of iconic acts including The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Sir Cliff Richard and Jimi Hendrix booked to play the Colston Hall.
Many of these gigs and more were penciled in by Bristol's legendary promoter Charles H Lockier. Delving through the Hall's archives, thanks to Lockier keeping newspaper cuttings, there was quite a ruckus ahead of The Beatles bringing their tour to Bristol in November, 1963.
After something of an unruly Colston Hall appearance by Gerry and The Pacemakers the city's entertainment committee, overseen by the council, seriously discussed whether Bristol should stop welcoming 'beat combos' to the city.
The crowd were so enthusiastic during the Pacemakers' show screaming and shouting that it had to be pulled a whole 10 minutes early – the rascals.Thankfully, there was no drastic revolution and the Beatles were allowed to play two Colston Hall gigs. A capacity of 2,500 was permitted for each concert, significantly exceeding the Hall's current capacity, with tickets going on sale for 12 shillings and six pence.
By: Craig Jones
Source: Bristol Post
